Vascepa is a prescription fish oil supplement that contains a high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. It is primarily used to lower triglyceride levels in individuals with high triglycerides. In comparison to other fish oil supplements, Vascepa has some distinct characteristics.
Firstly, Vascepa is different from over-the-counter fish oil supplements because it contains only one active ingredient, which is icosapent ethyl. This ingredient is a highly purified form of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), one of the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil. Other fish oil supplements, on the other hand, typically contain a combination of EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Secondly, Vascepa has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for specific medical conditions, such as severe hypertriglyceridemia. It has been shown to significantly reduce triglyceride levels in clinical trials. Other fish oil supplements are generally not FDA-approved for specific medical conditions and are often used for general health purposes.
Thirdly, Vascepa has undergone rigorous clinical testing to demonstrate its safety and efficacy. The drug's manufacturer conducted a large-scale clinical trial called REDUCE-IT, which showed that Vascepa reduced the risk of cardiovascular events in individuals with high triglyceride levels. This trial provided substantial evidence of Vascepa's effectiveness in reducing cardiovascular risk, which sets it apart from other fish oil supplements that may not have undergone similar rigorous testing.
Lastly, it is important to note that Vascepa is available only with a prescription, while other fish oil supplements can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. This means that Vascepa is specifically recommended and prescribed by healthcare professionals for individuals with specific medical conditions, whereas other fish oil supplements are more readily accessible to the general public.
In summary, Vascepa is a prescription fish oil supplement that differs from other over-the-counter fish oil supplements in several ways. It contains a highly purified form of EPA, has been FDA-approved for specific medical conditions, has undergone rigorous clinical testing, and is available only with a prescription. These factors make Vascepa a distinct option for individuals with high triglyceride levels seeking to manage their condition.
Sources:
[1] Drug Patent Watch: https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/VASCEPA
[2] Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/vascepa-fish-oil-3553311/
[3] Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/drugs/vascepa